By combining slick '70s funk grooves, new wave-inspired synths, sexy vocals and smart pop songwriting sensibilities, Prince dominated the r&b scene during the 1980s and proved to be one of the decade's most influential artists, although Michael Jackson sold more records. Legendary artists like Marvin Gaye and Aretha Franklin staged exciting comebacks and gained new fans by updating their sound. Impressive debut efforts by soulful r&b divas Whitney Houston, Anita Baker and Sade soared to the top of the pop charts, while male artists like Terence Trent D'Arby enjoyed critical acclaim.